Making Progress!

What a great week it's been so far! My energy is back and I'm feeling good. I had labs drawn on Monday and found out later that day that my white blood cell count dropped to 2 and it's supposed to be at least 3.8. I was a bit bummed and then, while showering, I thought my back felt strange. Scott took a look and my back was broken out with a rash from my shoulder blades to my hips. What the heck?!? A call to the doctor led to some allergy meds, which I had stopped abruptly when they told me the chemo defeats the benefits of allergy shots (which I was nearly done with). A little added cortisone cream and it is much better. I also found out it is common for the white blood cells to drop and the Neulasta shot takes 7-10 days to kick in, which might explain why I'm feeling so much better now! However due to all the flu and upper respiratory crap going around, I have opted to work from home, just in case.

I signed up for the LiveWell program at the Center for Health Improvement. It is an 8-

In my dreams!

week program, working with a cancer exercise specialist. The goal is to keep me from losing muscle mass during treatment, which is very common. They have found it also reduces nausea and fatigue. I am all for that!!! I can also get out and focus on something new, at least when my blood counts are good enough. When they aren’t, she will give me things I can do at home. Of course, all of that is dependent on how I feel, but I’m determined and Coach Scott is here to encourage and help me!

Tomorrow we have the post-op check with the surgeon. I am anxious to get the steri-strips off and the stitches out from my port/cath. We will also get more information on post-chemo surgery options now that we know there is more there than originally thought.

To date, my hair is still hanging in there, but that will likely change in the next week or so. I check my bed pillow every morning for signs so I can get ahead of any traumatic chunks falling out. I have Jeri's number on speed dial when that time comes. I’m thinking we should experiment with some interesting cuts before the final buzz, just for a few laughs.